BT challenges net neutrality

New paid service to improve video delivery sparks fears of a 'two-tier internet'

BT is to launch a new service that will enable broadband providers to prioritise video over other forms of internet traffic.

The providers will be able to charge content owners for the service, sparking fears that a 'two-tier' internet will result.

With video proving to be an increasingly popular form of internet content, BT has released a wholesale service called Content Connect. This service will run over the firm's new content distribution network, potentially enabling a stutter-free viewing of sites such as You Tube or BBC's iPlayer even during peak usage periods.

Jim Killock, executive director of digital rights campaigners the Open Rights Group, said: "The result could be a fundamental shift away from buying services from the internet to bundled services from ISPs: which would reduce competition and take investment away from internet companies. That would be bad for everyone."

A BT spokesperson rejected the notion that the product would create a two-tier internet.

"BT supports the concept of net neutrality but believes that service providers should also be free to strike commercial deals should content owners want a higher quality or assured service delivery.

"Contrary to recent reports in the media, BT's Content Connect service will not create a two tier internet, but will simply offer service providers the option of differentiating their broadband offering through enhanced content delivery."

The service is planned to go live early this year.